The Nigeria Police Force and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have been called upon to immediately cease their “obstructive tactics” aimed at frustrating the Edo State candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in last month’s governorship election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, in his quest for legitimate access to Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) data used for the election.
In statement on Monday in Benin City, the state capital, the spokesman of Team Asue Media Organisation (TAMO), Erhabor Emokpae said that these actions not only undermine the core principles of democracy but also threaten the rule of law in Nigeria.
TAMO expressed deep concern over the “brazen manipulation of the electoral process to favour the APC, disregarding the legitimate mandate of the people”.
“The blatant manipulation of the electoral process to favour the APC over the clear will of the electorate demonstrates a flagrant disregard for democratic principles”.
TAMO further noted that, despite “overwhelming evidence of electoral malfeasance, the PDP’s efforts to seek justice through the judiciary have been met with aggressive resistance from APC-aligned thugs and complicit law enforcement officers. Elements of the Police, rather than upholding the law, have allied themselves with those intent on derailing justice by preventing the PDP from accessing the BVAS machines used in the election, despite a court order authorising such access.
“This coordinated effort to obstruct the PDP’s legitimate inspection of the electoral process reveals a troubling alliance between political power and law enforcement, aimed at compromising the integrity of our democracy”.
The statement emphasised that the actions of the APC and their affiliates not only undermine free and fair elections but also threaten the foundation of governance in the state. “Democracy cannot flourish in an environment where the rule of law is ignored, and where intimidation and violence rule the day and take precedence over the will of the people. The failure of the police to fulfil their constitutional duties further erodes public trust in the institution tasked with safeguarding citizens’ rights”, the group said.
TAMO called on all citizens to unite in defending democracy against these assaults. “We demand accountability from the APC and the police, calling for an immediate end to their obstructive tactics and a recommitment to creating an electoral environment grounded in transparency and fairness. The voice of the people cannot be silenced. We will relentlessly pursue justice and hold those responsible for these actions to account, no matter the challenges before us. Our resolve will not weaken”, it further said.
